On Tuesday, President Barack Obama signed legislation that delays the transition to ICD-10 coding by at least one year.
The development has shaken the healthcare industry, as providers, health insurers and others on track to make the switch this October must re-evaluate their implementation plans. Here are four recent stories on the ICD-10 delay and industry stakeholders' reactions.
1. CIOs and the ICD-10 Delay: What's Next
This most recent delay (the transition was also delayed in 2012) deals a financial blow to hospitals and health systems that have devoted significant resources to ensure readiness for the Oct. 1, 2014, transition. Just two months ago, CMS Administrator Marilyn Tavenner had assured providers the 2014 date would not be delayed further.
2. Stakeholders Blast ICD-10 Delay
The delay was immediately denounced by many industry stakeholders, most of whom expressed frustration their efforts to be ready by Oct. 1, 2014, were for naught.
3. Can ICD-10 Be Optional In 2014?
In light of last week's abrupt turn of events and Congress' debates over the sustainable growth rate bill (HR 4302), particularly based on its potential to delay ICD-10 implementation, one question stands out: Can ICD-10 just be optional this year?
4. Senate Approves ICD-10 Delay
In a 64-35 vote Monday, the U.S. Senate passed a bill that extends the ICD-10 deadline to at least Oct. 1, 2015.
More Articles on ICD-10:
CIOs and the ICD-10 Delay: What's Next
Stakeholders Blast ICD-10 Delay
Senate Approves ICD-10 Delay